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June 1: New State Law Goes into
Effect to Protect Illinois Kids from Secondhand Smoke
Law prohibits smoking in vehicles with
children
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 [May 30, 2020]
On Monday, June 1, a new law is going into effect in Illinois that
will help protect children from secondhand smoke.
WHAT: House Bill 2276 aims to protect children from secondhand smoke
and prevent future youth tobacco use. The law makes it illegal to
smoke in vehicles with anyone under the age of 18 in the state of
Illinois. Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the bill in August 2019.
WHERE: Throughout the State of Illinois
WHEN: Starting on June 1, 2020
WHY: There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke. Every
year, more than 41,000 people in the U.S. die from secondhand smoke
exposure. In addition, children’s lungs are smaller, which makes
them more sensitive to secondhand smoke.
“This new law will protect the health of Illinois children.
Breathing secondhand smoke causes several health issues in children,
like sudden infant death syndrome, asthma, and ear infections, as
well as wheezing, coughing and getting sick more often,” said
Kristina Hamilton, advocacy director for the Lung Association. “It
is essential to avoid smoking near children, especially in small
enclosed spaces like cars.”
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Illinois is one of only nine states that has a law that prohibits smoking in
vehicles with children.
About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives
by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy
and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four
strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to
improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and
to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung
Association, a holder of the coveted 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a
Gold-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA
(1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.
[Jill Thompson
Division Manager | Communications | Western
American Lung Association]
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